The Chatterbox Seat: A conversation starter for community connection

Date published 23 September 2024

In an era where genuine connections can sometimes feel rare, the Chatterbox Seats are making a remarkable difference. These innovative seating spaces are more than just furniture; they symbolise a movement towards deeper community engagement and enhanced mental wellbeing. Here’s why Chatterbox Seats matter and how your community can be part of this transformative journey.

The origin of the Chatterbox Seat

The Chatterbox Seat originated from a simple yet profound idea: to create a space where people could come together and engage in meaningful conversations. Created in collaboration with New Zealander, Emily Turnbull following her heartbreaking personal journey after the loss of her husband, the Chatterbox Seat symbolises a safe space for open conversations about mental health.

Named “Chatterbox” to encourage dialogue and connection, the seat is designed to be a community hub where people can sit down, talk, and support each other. With research documenting 1.2 million New Zealanders feel lonely, creating spaces for connection is more vital than ever.

Why Chatterbox Seat matters?

1. Fostering connection: In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for meaningful conversations can be challenging. Chatterbox Seats are strategically placed in public areas to encourage people to stop, sit, and talk. These seats are designed to be inviting and comfortable, making it easier for people to engage in discussions that matter.
2. Supporting mental health: Each Chatterbox Seat is equipped with signage that promotes mental health awareness and provides information for professional support. By normalising conversations around mental wellbeing, these seats help reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help when needed.
3. Building resilient communities: Community bonds are essential for resilience, especially in the wake of recent challenges such as extreme weather events and rising costs. Chatterbox Seats serve as a catalyst for community building, offering a space where people can connect, share experiences, and support one another.

How your community can get involved

1. Install a Chatterbox Seat: Bring a Chatterbox Seat to your local area. Whether you’re a business, local council, or community group, installing a seat is a powerful way to support mental health and encourage community dialogue. Each seat serves as a visible commitment to fostering connection and wellbeing.
2. Share your story: Once a Chatterbox Seat is installed, share how it’s making a difference in your community. Document the conversations, the interactions, and the positive impacts. This helps spread awareness and inspire other communities to take part.
3. Participate in Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW): Align your community efforts with MHAW 2024, themed “Community is… What We Create Together.” Organise events or initiatives that complement the Chatterbox Seats and promote mental health. Engage your community in activities like Tūhono Thursday, where you encourage deeper connections and support.
4. Support the cause: For every Chatterbox Seat sold, Urban Effects will donate a youth counselling session through I Am Hope- New Zealand. By purchasing a seat, you’re not only enhancing your community space but also contributing to a broader mental health initiative.

The impact so far

To date, Chatterbox Seats have been installed in various locations around New Zealand including Harbour View Reserve in Auckland, Tutukaka Marine Reserve in Whangarei, Gore Gardens and War Memorial in Gore district, Potters Park in Auckland, Coastlands in the Kapiti Coast district, and at Newlands Intermediate School in Wellington, each one playing a vital role in fostering community connections and normalising mental health discussions. Feedback from communities has highlighted the value of these spaces in encouraging dialogue and providing support. Through high public demand, Chatterbox is in the process of being established as a charitable trust and will be taking public donations by the end of the year.

Join us in creating connection

As we celebrate MHAW 2024, we invite communities across New Zealand to join us in building a culture of connection and support. Order your Chatterbox Seat today and be part of this transformative movement. Together, let’s create spaces where conversations thrive and mental health is openly supported.

Contact us

For more information about Chatterbox Seats or to place an order, contact Urban Effects at Freephone: 0508 487 226 or complete our enquiry form.